German-based farm equipment maker, Geringhoff, will invest more than $20 million in a new manufacturing facility in St. Cloud, Minnesota, initially hiring 100 workers, with plans to create "significantly more jobs in the near future."

Its operation will be located in St. Cloud's Airport Industrial Park, where Geringhoff purchased a 110,000-square-foot building to house the manufacturing of corn harvesting equipment and other farm equipment.

"The quality of the local workforce and enthusiasm and support of the regional government agencies were the primary factors that contributed to our decision to open the facility here. In the end, it was the people from Minnesota and the St. Cloud region that made the difference," said Joseph Jandrisch, president of Geringhoff in North America. "St. Cloud's proximity to local suppliers in fabricated metal, advanced plastics production, hydraulics and electronic componentry also helped attract Geringhoff to the region. "

"Our brand represents quality equipment, and it is critical for us to work with individuals who will achieve our expectations of product quality and exceptional customer support," Jandrisch said.

"We are very proud and deeply grateful that Geringhoff has chosen Minnesota to launch their U.S. operations," said Gov. Mark Dayton. "These new jobs are extremely important to St. Cloud and to Minnesota. We look forward to working with Geringhoff to encourage future growth in our state."

"We're thrilled that Geringhoff chose St. Cloud for its first investment in North America," said Mark Phillips, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. "The expansion underscores Minnesota's ability to attract quality manufacturers, particularly in the growing farm implement sector."

As an incentive, the Department of Employment and Economic Development offered Geringhoff a $500,000 forgivable loan under its Minnesota Investment Fund as well as tax incentives through the JOBZ program.

"Geringhoff will be a tremendous asset to our community," said Dave Gruenes, chair of the Greater St. Cloud Development Corp. business development group. "We're proud to be able to offer the company close proximity to local suppliers, a strong workforce, a thriving agricultural network and a collaborative business community."